Africa-Press. Ethiopian Airlines, the largest carrier in Africa, has announced a new agreement with Boeing to purchase nine additional 787 Dreamliner aircraft, aimed at meeting the growing demand for long-haul flights and strengthening its global route network.
With this order, the number of modern aircraft the airline has contracted rises to 20 planes, following its announcement last December of purchasing 11 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft at the Dubai Airshow. The airline says these investments are part of its strategic plan to modernize its fleet and rely on more fuel-efficient aircraft.
Ethiopian Airlines is the largest operator of 787 Dreamliners in Africa, utilizing the 787-8 and 787-9 variants on intercontinental flights from Addis Ababa to major destinations in Europe, Asia, and North America, as well as domestic and regional routes connecting several African capitals.
The Dreamliners are noted for their ability to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by up to 25% compared to the aircraft they replace, giving the airline a competitive advantage in the global aviation market, particularly with the ability to carry both passengers and cargo on high-demand routes.
